How Will CSK Defeat GT in the IPL 2023 Final?


image-li5vki00Ruturaj Gaikwad has been in good batting form in IPL 2023 (Source: AP Photo)

The Chennai Super Kings have reached the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2023). MS Dhoni and Co. will aim for their fifth title, but the biggest obstacle will be an all-rounded formidable side in the Gujarat Titans, the defending champions. 

Much like IPL 2022, the Titans have played brilliant cricket and have displayed nerves of steel throughout the tournament. They managed to win 10 of their 14 league-stage matches and make the playoffs. Though they lost in Qualifier 1, GT came back strongly in Qualifier 2 against the Mumbai Indians and thrashed them by 62 runs. Hardik Pandya and the team have displayed tremendous character in the match that matters the most to make it to the summit clash.

It will take a lot for CSK to defeat GT in their backyard in the final. But for CSK, there might be a trump card that can turn things in their favour. It is none other than the talented Indian opener in Ruturaj Gaikwad.



Ruturaj Gaikwad's numbers vs Gujarat Titans

Ruturaj has an excellent record against the Titans, and that too in all types of wickets. Here is a look at the Gaikwad's numbers against the Titans. 

image-li5uya5kRuturaj Gaikwad's record vs Gujarat Titans (Table Source: Datawrapper)


Ruturaj Gaikwad vs the different GT bowlers

image-li5v34zsThe record of Ruturaj Gaikwad vs GT Bowlers in 2023 (Table Source: Datawrapper)

As we see, from the table Ruturaj has perfectly managed the GT bowlers. He has looked to bat cautiously against Shami and not give his wicket away early. But as he has settled down he has taken the toll on the bowlers. Ruturaj has scored at the best rate against Josh Little and Alzarri Joseph who have bowled at him in the middle and death overs. 

Joseph and Mohit Sharma have picked up his wickets on the two occasions, GT and CSK have met each other in IPL 2023. But these came after Gaikwad has played his part in the CSK batting effort. The best part of this figure is that, Ruturaj has managed Rashid Khan very efficiently. He has not give his wicket away to Rashid and has even scored at a healthy strike rate of over 140. 

All, these factors do show us that if CSK want to lift the trophy for the fifth time, Ruturaj Gaikwad will have to play a major role. He will have to handle the bowlers of GT efficiently and annul their effect so that his team gets an advantage following the effort.